New York puts LED lights on Thruway to save 20 percent on light bill

Syracuse, N.Y. -- The addition of LED lights along the New York State Thruway and Canal system should cut electric costs by 20 percent, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced today.

The lighting upgrades should also improve visibility along the state's Thruway and Canal system, the governor said in a news release.

“As we celebrate Earth Week, New York is continuing to move forward with efforts to increase energy efficiency and reduce costs in state government by adopting new green technologies,” Cuomo said. “The Thruway’s LED lighting project is one example of how we are doing our part to use less electricity. In addition, these environmentally friendly upgrades will result in significant savings – and pay for themselves – which is great news for toll payers.”

The Thruway Authority's yearly electric bill is about $2 million. The new lights will be installed at toll barriers and plazas, including Exits 38 and 39 in the Syracuse area.

LED bulbs can last up to a decade and require less energy than traditional high-pressure sodium fixtures, resulting in both lower energy and maintenance costs, the release said.

Incentives and rebates from National Grid will cover some of the installation costs, according to the release.